Apartment, townhouse proposals discussed in Media

MEDIA — Two proposed projects at the borough’s western gateway could change the face and perception of the county seat.

David Della Porta of Cornerstone Communities and Jason Duckworth of Arcadia Land Co. own two separate companies, but have often collaborated on major projects, primarily in Chester and Montgomery counties. They appeared at council’s July work session, allowing architect Bob Linn to present site plans for a four-story, 150-unit apartment building on the south side Baltimore Pike, just east of Brooke Street, and a companion project of 22 townhouses on the north side of Baltimore Pike yards from the end of State Street. They came away from the meeting with encouraging comments from the board.

County residents might be familiar with Cornerstone’s Terrazza buildings in Newtown Square. Both firms are well-established, high-end and attuned to creating housing reflecting the importance of community and local heritage.

“This is a very early concept flanking both sides of Baltimore Pike,” said Linn. “Moving forward, we have an opportunity for new housing stock by someone who is willing to put money into the western gateway.”

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“This is a great location for a walkable town — a town where people want to live,” said Della Porta.

“We share a passion for walkable neighborhoods and can’t imagine a better opportunity,” said Duckworth. “These projects will show a lot of respect for Baltimore Pike.”

In response to Councilwoman Lisa Johnson’s question on why apartments are desired, Della Porta said his experience shows this is where the market resides for younger people starting out and new empty-nesters who are downsizing. The townhouses will be offered for ownership.

With no firm timeline, Linn said the projects must address zoning issues, potentially with an overlay district. That legislation, the purview of council, will probably precede presentations before the planning commission for logistical reasons.